Thurlestone Hotel, Devon

An idyllic country getaway on England’s South Coast

The buzz
When choosing a mini-break destination, sometimes you want the best of both worlds: a quiet outdoorsy retreat that doesn’t compromise on luxury or service. The Thurlestone hotel may just be the answer. It has been owned and run by the Grose family for over a century, and they have worked hard to ensure its status as the perfect South Devon getaway to relax and recharge.

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Rooms
There are 65 rooms, most with sea views and some with balconies. The best rooms have both – nothing beats admiring the rolling green and amber fields and rugged coastal views while breathing in fresh sea air.

Dining
The Margaret Amelia Restaurant has old-style charm, with a seating plan for guests, impeccable table service and traditional British food.

From tailormade morning fry-ups to corn-fed chicken with creamy risotto and roasted vine tomatoes, each dish is beautifully presented, tasty and suitably indulgent, made with only the finest local Devon produce. If you dine in the evening, be sure to try the bramley apple and rhubarb crumble with clotted cream for pudding.

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The Terrace Bar is a picture-perfect spot for pre-dinner cocktails or a classic cream tea, overlooking 19 acres of gardens out across Thurlestone Bay.

What to do
The village may feel somewhat remote, especially if you’re used to city-living, but you’ll never be short of things to do. On site, you can play tennis or golf, go for an outdoor swim or visit the spa. This is a family-friendly hotel with regular activities for children to keep them entertained.

If you like bracing country walks, this is the ideal spot. The Thurlestone is five minutes from a sandy beach, where you can join the South West Coastal Path and walk to the spectacular neighbouring coastal village of Bantham and beyond.

Wow factor
Escape to the Voyage Spa for a selection of soothing Decléor and Ytsara treatments. We tried Thurlestone signature the Voyage Spa Ocean Escape (£99) – a pampering experience during which you are exfoliated with local herbs and sea salts for polished, baby-soft skin before a top-to-toe massage. Leave feeling lighter, smoother and totally tension-free.

Book itPrices at the Thurlestone Hotel start from £245 a room night B&B (01548 560382; www.thurlestone.co.uk).

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